Coffin Island

Many locals and tourists would agree that one of the best things about Charleston is the proximity to the beach. Of the Charleston beaches, the favorite of many if Folly Beach, where people come from all over to vacation and enjoy the sun! Along with its beauty, Folly has a rich history that involves hauntings, shipwrecks and even war. Here are some Folly History Fun Facts! 

1. The Island used to be called “Coffin Island”.

Before the Civil War, Folly was called Coffin Island, although the significance of this name is still debated to this day. Some believe it’s due to the fact that ships would drop off sick and dying sailors on the island to keep them quarantined. While others understand it to be from a shipwreck in 1700 off the coast which led to many bodies washing up onshore. 

2. The island was first occupied by a native tribe.

When the Europeans arrived in the 1600s the island was inhabited by a native tribe known as the Bohickets. By the late 1600s, the tribe was wiped out and to this day it is still unclear how it happened. 

3. The name Folly was named after its rich foliage.

When Folly was first inhabited the island was covered and encased with rich foliage. All along the coastline, Folly was densely packed with trees and growth. This gave it its Old English name meaning “dense foliage”. 

4. Folly was a hub for soldiers during the Civil War. 

Folly was occupied by Federal troops beginning in 1863. Even with its plentiful foliage, they were able to build roads, forts and hold artillery. Folly eventually had the capacity for 13,000 troops to be stationed on the Island. Folly Island was also used as the main base for the battle to take on Fort Sumter! 

5. The island is said to be haunted.

Shipwrecks occurred often off of Folly Beach. One of the most haunting stories was the Amelia shipwreck in 1832. 120 sailors and passengers bound to New Orleans from New York wrecked off the coast. The surviving passengers made it to shore and were quarantined as some had come down with cholera. Twenty of the passengers died of cholera and are said to haunt the area.

6. It was a hideout for buccaneering pirates.

In the 1700s, pirates would hideout along Folly beach using the coves and inlets to take over vessels in the water. The most notorious pirate being the legendary Blackbeard!

7. Folly became a hub for locals during the 1940s.

After the civil war, Folly Beach was virtually abandoned until the 1940s when Charleston locals realized the beautiful beach was so close to the city. Locals started pouring in; they began construction on what was intended to be temporary buildings but led to permanent establishments as word spread of this beautiful island. The construction of the Ocean Plaza began and the Folly Pier became a hub for the community. 

Folly, Your History Is Showing!

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A Friendly Reminder to Help the Sea Turtles

Lights out at 10

We are coming up on my favorite time of year to go fishing in Folly Beach and Charleston SC! Fishing has been great the past few weeks as hoards of bait and slightly cooler temps signal a change of seasons is underway. Deep-Sea Charter Fishing has been exciting as King and Spanish Mackerel hunt near the surface while Triggerfish, Snapper, Sea Bass and assorted other bottom dwellers wait for your bait to be dropped to the bottom. Nearshore charters are targeting Big Redfish, Sharks and Flounder that are hanging close to the beach to take advantage of all the available food.

This is one of the best times of year to put some quality sized catches and numbers of fish in the boat. Live and cut bait will work on big redfish, sharks, flounder, trout and a variety of other species. We have been fortunate enough to be able to mix things up and use several techniques to get the fish to bite including bottom fishing, popping corks, tipping jigs with live bait and live lining just to name a few. If you want to learn how to use a variety of artificial lures now is the time to do it. The new topwater baits by Z-Man, Live Target shrimp or DOA Terror eyes or CAL swimbaits are a perfect choice for this time of year and will continue to produce even when live bait becomes scarce. So if you learn to use them effectively now you will be performing at “expert level” when fishing over the cooler months. Work with your local tackle shop to find the rod and reel setups to maximize your casting distance. Don’t minimize the importance of the right line and leader for the job as well. I have found that using the lightest line that is appropriate for my presentations makes it much easier to detect bites, especially with fish that tend to inhale baits. Your local tackle experts will get you on the water with the right stuff every time. As always email, call, text or book a trip online with me to find out more. These folks in the pics below did! Let’s go fishing!

September Fishing Report

The perfect storm that makes for awesome fishing in the fall is about to begin. The combination of lower water temperatures, fewer fishermen on the water and tons of bait makes for ideal conditions. The arrival of cooler days that will make fishing much more pleasant doesn’t hurt either!

Popping corks are often mentioned in our reports. Why? Because they work so well! Redfish, trout, and flounder will all eat bait that’s suspended in the water column. I’ll attach an 18”-24” leader from the cork to a size 1 circle hook. When fishing this rig, it’s very important to keep the slack out of your line so you can react quickly when the cork drops. I keep my rod tip pointed at the cork and just reel when it drops. You’ll find your hookup rate improves compared to keeping your rod tip high and trying to set the hook by jerking back on the rod.

It is time to bid farewell to the summer seasonal species who will likely be gone by the end of the month. Meanwhile, sharks are still providing plenty of entertainment for the next few weeks. When fishing in deep water, it is crucial to use enough weight to keep your bait pinned to the bottom. Baits that are swinging around in the current usually won’t get hit. Instead of using one large 4 or 6oz. weight, I’ll use 1 or 2oz. weights attached to a slinker slide on my line to get the desired effect.
One of the upsides of fishing for sharks these days is you’ll occasionally hook into the bull redfish that are starting to appear. With the mullet run in full swing, these beasts follow the bait inshore. Cracked blue crab and fresh-cut mullet make perfect baits. You’ll find these fish on ledges and drop-offs in the harbor and inlets. Bites can be less frequent than with corks but with redfish measuring into the upper 30” class, it is well worth your time.

See you on the water!

For over a decade, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at [email protected].

Top 5 Lunch Spots on Folly Beach

Folly Beach is not only a beach town, but it also offers many great lunch spots for those visiting or just looking for a place to grab a bite before spending an afternoon oceanside. The only problem is choosing where to go… Luckily, we got you covered!

1. Wiki Wiki Sandbar
Southern and Hawaiian cuisine become one at Wiki Wiki, and we definitely aren’t complaining! Wiki Wiki is the perfect lunch spot for those looking for a truly one of a kind culinary experience. The building looks as if it’s a beachside mansion and it’s decorated with bright colors and seaside accents making it hard NOT to enjoy yourself. Their cocktails are also something you won’t find anywhere else due to their humorous Hawaiian twists!

2. Rita’s on Folly
Part of the Hall’s Management Group, Rita’s is perfect for those wanting a hearty, Southern meal prior to heading to the beach for the day. Rita’s is a more traditional lunch spot, offering something for all types of eaters. With consistently great service, drinks, and food, it’s bound to please all those Southern cravings!

3. Chico Feo
If you’re looking for a culinary experience a bit off the beaten path, Chico Feo is a must. Chico Feo’s beachy atmosphere alongside their constantly changing menu specials makes them a consistently great lunch spot on Folly. The outdoor terrace and friendly vibe make everyone who visits feel like a local.

4. Loggerhead’s Beach Grille
Loggerhead’s is the perfect option for a late riser looking for more breakfast options. Loggerhead’s terrace often has live music and a more authentic local vibe. Their menu options hold a southern twist that’s bound to please anyone looking for a unique, chill, and laid back lunch option. Oh! And they also have a phenomenal array of craft beers on tap for those who enjoy a mid-day brew.

5. Snapper Jack’s
The rooftop terrace overlooking the beach isn’t the only thing drawing in a crowd. Snapper Jack’s also serves a specialty cocktail in a big fish bowl, which is the perfect lunch time cocktail to share. This beachy atmosphere is equipped with live music and a diverse menu that includes seafood, taco, and sushi specials. Snapper Jack’s definitely offers something for everyone, even if it’s just a fishbowl for one!

How to Spend Labor Day on Folly Beach

August Fishing Forecast

August charter fishing in Folly Beach is something we big fish fans look forward to all year! Nearshore fisherman will benefit from both our world class Bull Redfish run to battling monster sharks just off the beach. Deep Sea fishing charters will have the opportunity to rear back against drag screaming King Mackerel, stubborn Amberjack and hard fighting Grouper and Snapper. Inshore fishing charters will be able to experience explosive topwater action as Speckled Trout and Redfish launch themselves at lures early in the morning. Later in the day expect to cast baits near deeper structure such as docks, oyster beds and rock piles as these fish lay in wait to ambush your offering. No matter what type of charter you prefer August fishing has something for everyone. As always we are family friendly and geared up for the experienced angler or first time fisherman. Visit our website to book online, check availability and get answers to most of your questions. Feel free to contact us by phone, text or email. Let’s go fishing!

Captain Kevin Blair
Charleston Fish Rod Bending Co
www.charlestonfishrodbendingcompany.com
https://www.facebook.com/charlestonfishrodbendingco?ref=hl
843-696-4231

August Upcoming Events

There’s never a dull moment on Folly Beach, whether you’re a local or just passing through. With sun, sand, and great company, the options are endless! Here are some upcoming events on Folly that you won’t want to miss:

1. Live Music in Various Locations

Folly Beach is home to lots of bars/restaurants that love live music. Nothing says summer like relaxing on a deck or patio with a cold drink and a great band. Locations like Loggerhead’s, The Crab Shack, Snapper Jacks, St. James Gate, and more welcome various artists (and karaoke!) for Folly-goers to enjoy. There’s something for everyone, everyday of the week, so head over to our calendar of events and check some out!

2. Farmers Market at Folly River Park

Who doesn’t love a Farmers Market? Every Monday, take a stroll through the market, forget your stresses from the work day, and pick up some great finds along the way! This is a wonderful weekly event for all ages of the family to enjoy live music, activities, and food. It’s a great way to get out of the house and have fun supporting local small businesses!

3. National Night Out

On August 6th, head back over to Folly River Park for the 3rd Annual Folly Beach Public Safety Department National Night Out! This event will include fun for the whole family with a chance to support and learn more about your Folly community. There will be free food and drinks, gift bags for the kids, and police and fire men and women waiting to meet you!

4. Summer Beach Movie

What’s more relaxing than watching a movie, on the beach, under the stars?? Head over to The Tides Hotel every Wednesday night this month to catch a summer beach movie! Movies vary, so check out our calendar of events to see what’s playing!

5. Moonlight Mixer

On August 16th, the Folly Beach Pier will be home to the Moonlight Mixer with DJ Jim Bowers. This is a perfect opportunity to dance the night away to oldies and classic beach music in the warm breeze! Make summer memories that will last a lifetime with general admission tickets for $8 or $10 at the gate. Food and drinks are available to purchase on the pier!

Looking Ahead (Mark your calendars!):
September 21st- Sea and Sand Festival
October 12th- Follypalooza

10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Charleston SC

1. Arguably Charleston’s most famous land mark, The Ravenel Bridge is actually North Americas longest cable-stayed bridge. The previously named John P. Grace Memorial Bridge was rebuilt and renamed after Arthur Ravenel Jr., the head of the South Carolina Infrastructure Bank in 1999. The bridge towers over the Cooper River and connects Charleston to Mount Pleasant. It was built in order to withstand earthquakes, hurricanes, and shipwrecks.

2. Many are aware of the popular song and dance that originated in the 1920’s named “The Charleston”. The composer of the song, James P. Johnson, said that he was inspired by The Jenkins Orphanage Band, which was formed in The Jenkins Orphanage in Charleston. The dance/song became a symbol of the 1920’s and the jazz age.

3. Historically Charleston is known for pirate attacks. Charleston was a very important harbor in the early 1700’s and there were many valuable merchant ships that attracted pirates. Today, we have numerous accounts of Charleston being raided by some of the most infamous pirates including Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and Calico Jack. One of the most famous attacks by Blackbeard lead to the blockade of the Charleston Harbor, in which he took hostages leaving the city in crippling fear for almost a week.

4. As you walk down the historic streets of Charleston, you might notice a common color among the houses. That color is referred to as Charleston Green, and has a lot of historic significance. After the Civil War, it is said that the Union sent black government-issued paint to Charleston for city members to fix the damages of the war. Charlestonians were not fond of the “Yankee Black” however, and in true southern fashion, decided to add hints of yellow and blue to the paint to create the color Charleston Green.

5. Another one of Charleston’s famous paint jobs is Rainbow Row. Located on East Bay Street, Rainbow Row consists of unique houses all painted in bright pastel colors. In 1931 a woman named Dorothy Porcher Legg boldly decided to paint her houses pastel pink, enticing her neighbors followed in her footsteps. While the houses of Rainbow Row are aesthetically pleasing, pastel colors also help keep the inside of the house’s cooler as well, which is much needed in the heated summers of Charleston.

6. Charleston is known for its beautiful golf courses, but what some might not know is that Charleston was actually the birth place of the first organized American golf game. In 1743 the first shipment of golf equipment was delivered from Scotland to the colonies and The South Carolina Golf Club was formed shortly after in 1786. The members played on what is known as Harelston’s Green.

7. Charleston is also home to the historic military college, The Citadel. The Citadel played a key role in the Civil War and although Fort Sumter is famous for the start of the war, cadets from The Citadel were the first to fire shots in the civil war in 1861. Today the Citadel is ranked #1 Public College in the South.

8. Folly Beach is home to some of the most beautiful views and best restaurants around, however some may not know that it is actually referred to by some as “The Edge of America”. Although there are many theories as to why this is, for the most part it is unknown as to why so many refer to Folly Beach as this. It is known however that two owners of the local Ocean Sports Surf shop coined the name, and it is actually a registered trademark.

9. Many are aware that Charleston is famous for its vast amount of pineapples hidden all over the city. However, many might not be aware of their significance. The pineapple in Charleston is actually a symbol of hospitality and friendship. Historically, when sea captains would return from their voyages, they would place a pineapple at the front of their homes, signifying they had returned and were hospitable.

10. Lastly, Charleston is home to a famous Latin motto “Aedes mores juraque curat” which translates in English to “She guards her buildings customs and more”. Charleston’s unique and historic culture cannot be mistaken, and to this day is one of the most sought-after places to travel.